Please note that the Topic Hubs developed by this Center have been archived and are no longer being updated. GLRPPR has converted several of its Topic Hubs to LibGuides, which allow for integration of some social features.

A.E. Stevenson High SchoolAbstract: A.E. Stevenson High School has been ranked as the top-ranked public high school in Illinois by Newsweek Magazine. To accommodate a projected enrollment of 4,500, the facility was expanded in September 2001 to include a new resource center, commons and a 30-classroom addition. The design called for spaces to encourage collaborative learning and expansive windows in the resource center that allow natural light creating a sense of comfort and stimulation for learning and social activities.Source: School DesignsURL:http://www.schooldesigns.com/ResultsDetail.asp?id=1664

Cherry Lane High Case Study: Restructuring a Large, Comprehensive High School to Small Schools [PDF]Abstract: Cherry Lane has begun a multi-year effort to convert from a large, comprehensive high school into three small schools with unique identities. This case study of Cherry Lane High's first year of conversion looks at the background, design year, and early implementation of the multi-year process to becoming three small schools. By highlighting the impact on the school community and the major challenges they face, it is intended to inform the work of other districts and schools. The CCE research team presented this study at the American Educational Research Association annual conference in April 2003 in Chicago.Source: Research and Evaluation Program, Center for Collaborative EducationURL:http://www.ccebos.org/cherry_lane_conversion_1.pdf

Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHPS)Abstract: The mission of the Collaborative for High Performance Schools is to facilitate the design, construction and operation of high performance schools: environments that are not only energy and resource efficient, but also healthy, comfortable, well lit, and containing the amenities for a quality education.Source: Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHPS)URL:http://www.chps.net/index.htm

E, The Environmental Magazine: Colleges Go Green (March/April 2008 Edition,Volume XIX, No. 2)Abstract: This edition of E includes articles on environmental initiatives on the campuses of colleges and universities, including climate initiatives and expressing concerns to legislators. An article called "Sustainability on the Menu" discusses the use of organic and locally grown food for campus dining services, as well as composting waste from those services. There are also sidebars on water conservation, students creating sustainable solutions, and case studies of green projects at colleges and universities throughout the U.S. for students hoping to choose an environmentally progressive school.Source: E, The Environmental MagazineURL:http://www.emagazine.com/index.php?toc&issue=137

Greening America's Schools: Costs and Benefits [PDF]Abstract: Written by Gregory Kats, this report is intended to answer this fundamental question: how much more do green schools cost, and is greening schools cost effective? This report documents the financial costs and benefits of green schools compared to conventional schools. This national review of 30 green schools demonstrates that green schools cost less than 2% more than conventional schools - or about $3 per square foot ($3/ft2) - but provide financial benefits that are 20 times as large. Greening school design provides an extraordinarily cost-effective way to enhance student learning, reduce health and operational costs and, ultimately, increase school quality and competitiveness. (PDF Format; Length: 24 pages)Source: Capital EURL:http://www.cap-e.com/ewebeditpro/items/O59F9819.pdf

Greening SchoolsAbstract: Greening Schools is a joint project of the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) and the Illinois Waste Management and Research Center (WMRC). This program is designed to assist schools with improving physical environmental conditions, while also providing teachers with standards-based tools to introduce concepts of waste reduction and pollution prevention to students. The program offers free technical assistance to all Illinois schools, public and private. The program?s Web site offers pollution prevention, waste reduction, energy efficiency, and related resources for all school personnel, including teachers, administrators, and facility managers. Source: IEPA & WMRCURL:http://www.greeningschools.org

Healthy Schools: Lessons for a Clean Educational Environment [PDF]Abstract: More than 53 million children and 6 million adults in the United States spend their days in our elementary and secondary schools. Reducing environmental risks inside these buildings is critical to maintaining the public health. Almost all of New England's children will spend a large portion of their childhood in school. To help our children stay healthy, we must reduce their exposure to environmental hazards in school environments. When students and their teachers are healthy and comfortable, children learn and produce more in the classroom, which in turn improves performance and achievement later in life. This brochure can help school employees and parents recognize potential environmental health issues at schools, both indoors and outdoors. It includes basic information about a broad range of topics, and links to web sites that offer more information and guidance on how to have a healthier school environment and comply with relevant laws. EPA's Healthy School Environments web site provides access to programs that help prevent and resolve environmental issues in schools.Source: U.S. Environmental Protection AgencyURL:http://www.epa.gov/NE/children/pdfs/healthy_schools.pdf

High Performance SchoolsAbstract: US EPA's Indoor Air Quality Design Tools for Schools defines High Performance Schools, explains the benefits and characteristics of high performance schools as well as financing these schools. The tools address design phases, controlling pollutants and sources as well as construction, commissioning, renovation and much more.Source: US EPA's IAQ Design Tools for SchoolsURL:http://www.epa.gov/iaq/schooldesign/highperformance.html

Illinois Sustainable Schools Compact [PDF]Abstract: The Illinois Sustainable Schools Compact program launched on January 31, 2008 features best practices that K-12 schools can voluntarily pursue to achieve greater environmental sustainability. Schools as well as districts can check off up to 12 practices to participate, including things on the list the school or district is already doing. Those who wish to participate should print two copies of the compact, have the principal sign the documents after checking off practices the school is now pursuing and aims to pursue, then mail both copies to: Office of the Lieutenant Governor, Attn: Jon Zirkle, Thompson Center, 100 W. Randolph, Suite 15-200, Chicago, IL 60601-3220. Lt. Governor Quinn will sign both copies, keep one on file, then mail one copy back to the school.Source: Office of the Lt. Governor of IllinoisURL:http://www.standingupforillinois.org/pdf/green/sustainable_school_compact_012908.pdf

National Clearinghouse for Educational Facilities (NCEF)Abstract: Created in 1997 by the U.S. Department of Education, the National Clearinghouse for Educational Facilities (NCEF) provides information on planning, designing, funding, building, improving, and maintaining safe, healthy, high performance schools. The NCEF site provides extensive resource lists on various topics, which are grouped into the following broad categories: Preplanning, Planning, Design, School Spaces, School Grounds, Case Studies, Safe Schools, Healthy Schools, High Performance Schools, Technology, Materials & Equipment, School Construction, Financing, Building & Operating Costs, and Maintenance & Operations.Source: National Institute of Building SciencesURL:http://www.edfacilities.org/

Safe Shops Tool KitAbstract: The Boston Public Health Commission's Safe Shops Tool Kit was developed to describe how the Safe Shops Project was created and to provide other communities which are also working toward goals of environmental health and pollution prevention in auto shops the tools and resources necessary to start or compliment initiatives of their own. Tool Kit sections include: Safe Shops Case Study; Develop & Sustain Partnerships; Identifying Shops; Creating an Educational Program; Addressing Health Disparities; Auto Shop Links & Resources; Apply for Funding Resources; and Providing Incentives. The Tool Kit can be downloaded in its entirety in a zip file at the address listed above. You can also view the sections online and download documents associated with each section separately. Please note that other auto shop educational material and information about the Safe Shops Project can be found at http://www.bphc.org/safeshops.Source: Boston Public Health CommissionURL:http://www.bphc.org/bphc/safeshops_toolkit.asp

School Operations and Maintenance: Best Practices for Controlling Energy Costs [PDF]Abstract: Prepared by Princeton Energy Resource International, HPowell Energy Associates and the Alliance to Save Energy, this guidebook is designed for K-12 school system business officials and facilities managers. It is designed to meet the specific needs of school district staff for integrating energy efficiency into school building operation and maintenance by not only providing technical information, but also organizational information on barriers, challenges, and the necessary steps required to develop this type of energy management program within the school district organizational structure. The guide also provides case studies and identifies common practices that have been successful in a wide variety of American school districts. (PDF Format; Length: 132 pages)Source: PERI, HPowell Energy Associates, ASEURL:http://www.ase.org/uploaded_files/greenschools/School%20Energy%20Guidebook_9-04.pdf

Schools for Energy Efficiency (SEE)Abstract: Schools for Energy Efficiency (SEE) is a comprehensive program to help K-12 schools save energy and money by changing behavior throughout the district. SEE provides a systemized plan, awareness materials, training, and utility tracking for immediate and sustainable savings. SEE provides schools with the strategies, resources, and support necessary to implement an energy management program. The program is meant to be flexible and can be customized to fit the needs of your school district. Though the program primarily serves school districts in Minnesota, districts from other states are welcome to inquire about the program as well.Source: Hallberg Engineering, Inc.URL:http://www.seeprograms.com/

Society of Building Science EducatorsAbstract: The Society of Building Science Educators (SBSE) is an association of university educators and practitioners in architecture and related disciplines who support excellence in the teaching of environmental science and building technologies. SBSE's goal of promoting and supporting quality instruction in building science is realized through a broad range of practical activities. Source: SBSEURL:http://www.sbse.org/about_sbse.htm

Sustainable Buildings Industry Council School Buildings ProgramAbstract: The SBIC schools program addresses three key questions: What is a high-performance school building?;Why is it valuable?;and,How can they be achieved in the community? SBIC's program is unique because it speaks directly to the procurement specialists, school board members, superintendents and district officials, and community advocates who seek high-performance schools and because it goes Beyond Green(TM) honing in on critical issues like accessibility, safety and security, durability, and classroom acoustics - perhaps one of the most challenging issues facing educators today. The centerpiece of the program is the third edition of the High-Performance School Buildings Resource & Strategy Guide and the two-day Beyond Green(TM) companion workshop. In addition, the Council has created on-line training for NYSERDA and an Information & Training Center for those seeking to promote these facilities.Source: Sustainable Buildings Industry Council URL:http://www.sbicouncil.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=98

Sustainable Design for SchoolsAbstract: Pacific Northwest Pollution Prevention Center's report on the practical application of sustainable school design. Includes information related to sustainable school design (lighting, acoustics, air quality, and well-being needs) and student performance; three case studies; a bibliography; and links for more inforamtion.Source: PPRCURL:http://www.pprc.org/pubs/schools/index.cfm

Sustainable Flooring: Successful Community Partnerships Build Sustainable School BuildingsAbstract: Poudre School District in Fort Collins, Colo., embarked on a mission: to work with designers in creating a high-performance school that not only set new standards in education facility design, but also stayed within the restraints of a typical school budget. To achieve this goal, the district chose to pursue Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for its new Fossil Ridge High School. The result: A state-of-the-art, 290,000-square-foot building with capacity for 1,800 students--all of whom will learn in an environmentally responsible, healthy building that's saving the school district money. Case study written by Lee H. Schilling. Source: Environmental Design + Construction (EDC) Magazine, May 20, 2008; also available in the print June 2008 edition of the magazine.Source: Environmental Design + Construction (EDC) MagazineURL:http://www.edcmag.com/CDA/Articles/Sustainable_Flooring/BNP_GUID_9-5-2006_A_10000000000000341474

Sustainable SchoolsAbstract: The Division of the State Architect (DSA) is committed to helping schools create high performance educational facilities that will ensure the optimal health and productivity of students and faculty. This website provides a diverse collection of sustainable building resources including the numerous benefits, guidelines, programs, case studies, relevant publications, funding options/incentives, and plenty more! The site is geared toward those interested and involved in designing, developing, and constructing high performance schools, such as school administrators and board officials, developers, architects, planners, researchers, teachers, parents, and others.Source: Division of the California State ArchitectURL:http://www.green.ca.gov/GreenBuildings/schools.htm

Teach English, Teach about the Environment [PDF]Abstract: This curriculum will help you teach English to adult students while introducing basic concepts about the environment and individual environmental responsibility. These concepts can help the newly-arrived be part of cleaner and healthier communities by understanding and practicing the "3Rs" of solid waste management -- reduce, reuse, recycle.Source: U.S. EPA Office of Solid WasteURL:http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/education/pdfs/tesol.pdf

U.S. EPA Healthy School Environments PortalAbstract: The Healthy School Environments Web pages are intended to serve as a gateway to on-line resources to help facility managers, school administrators, architects, design engineers, school nurses, parents, teachers and staff address environmental health issues in schools. Included on these pages are links to information on: the design, construction and renovation of school buildings; energy efficiency for schools; environmental education; facility operations and maintenance; indoor environmental air quality; legislation and regulations related to children's environmental health; outdoor air pollution; portable classrooms; safety and preparedness; waste issues, including recycling, waste reduction and composting; and water issues. The site also provides quick links to relevant U.S. EPA programs. The portal site also provides information about an assessment tool that EPA is developing to help school districts evaluate their school facilities for key environmental, safety and health issues in an effort to promote the health and safety of children and staff in the nation's 120,000+ public and private school facilities.Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)URL:http://www.epa.gov/schools/

U.S. EPA School Chemical Cleanout Campaign (SC3)Abstract: The Schools Chemical Cleanout Campaign (SC3) aims to ensure that all schools are free from hazards associated with mismanaged chemicals. SC3 gives K-12 schools information and tools to responsibly manage chemicals. By using the tools provided on this site and pulling together a team with a variety of perspectives, expertise, and resources you can develop a successful chemical management program. Schools, parents, and local organizations can partner to create a chemical management program that meets the unique needs of their schools. SC3 is one component of EPA's Resource Conservation Challenge (RCC), a national effort to conserve natural resources and energy by managing materials more efficiently.Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)URL:http://www.epa.gov/sc3/

USGBC Build Green SchoolsAbstract: Launched on October 16, 2007 by the U.S. Green Building Council, this site is filled with profiles of schools that have already gone green, examples of policies governments and school districts have instituted to ensure future schools are green, and a social networking site for visitors to share their experiences, best practices, and creative ideas. The "Resources" section includes videos and slideshows, project profiles, publications, links to research related to green school buildings and their benefits, and links to related green building web sites. A special section outlines LEED for schools and related resources, including a link to a free LEED for Schools 101 online course.Source: U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)URL:http://www.buildgreenschools.org/

Wisconsin Green and Healthy Schools ProgramAbstract: Wisconsin Green & Healthy Schools program is a web-based, voluntary program available to all public and private elementary, middle, and high schools across Wisconsin. The program encourages teachers, staff, students and parents to work together to use the school, its grounds, and the whole community as learning tools to help teach, promote, and apply healthy, safe and environmentally sound practices. There is no time limit for completing the program. You can move at your own pace. Educators, administrators, staff and students use Green & Healthy School resources with DNR and DPI support to assist with curriculum integration, community involvement, and implementation.Source: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR)URL:http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/ce/greenschools/index.htm